QIEU Chapter Resources: Information Sheet 8
Handling grievances
When dealing with grievances, it is essential that you are aware of all the facts, issues and options for resolution. This will ensure that issues can be dealt with in an appropriate and timely manner. Dealing with grievances – facts, issues and action When determining the facts of the grievance, you must know the following
What happened? Where it happened? When did it happen? Who was there? What does the agreement/award say? Has this happened before?
In addition to knowing the facts, you also must ascertain what are the key issue or issues associated with the grievance. For example, members may be expected to attend an event outside of school time. The issue is that some members are not able to due to other commitments, and some simply do not feel it is appropriate to attend. From here, determine what options exist to resolve this issue. In the case of the above issue, members might meet to pass a Chapter resolution to make their feelings on the matter heard, or they may choose not to attend the event, or only attend as a whole group.
Dealing with member issues and concerns Members of the Chapter Executive will be frequently asked questions by members, as the link between the members in your workplace and our union office, members will look to you for information and assistance on a range of matters. When you are asked a question it is important to understand why the question is being asked. Is the issue specific to this member, or felt widely across the workplace? Could this be an issue that could be used to mobilise members in the workplace to action to bring about change around issues of concern? When you are approached with questions or concerns from members ensure that you give accurate answers. If you are not sure how to answer their question, tell them you will get back to them and investigate the correct response to their enquiry. If you are unsure of how to answer their question you can contact your organiser or union office for assistance. Last Updated: 06/11/2008
When you have assisted a member with a question or concern, ensure that you follow up with them to ensure that the matter has been resolved and they are satisfied with the outcome. If they are not, it may be an issue that can be investigated further with a view to building a campaign to bring about change. Although it is important for the Chapter Executive to assist members with emerging issues, it is also important that members remember that they are the union and that the best way to resolve issues is through coming together with their colleagues. The Chapter Executive, in conjunction with our union office, can assist with direction and resources to assist members with resolving issues. The power of our union comes from our members working collectively to bring about change.
Additional Information? If you would like to know more about handling grievances, or you wish to discuss an issue within your workplace, please contact your union organiser or your union office: Brisbane Office Townsville Office Bundaberg Office
Last Updated: 06/11/2008
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